NOAA probes alleged sea lion kicking at La Jolla Cove

Federal officials are investigating a video that appears to show a man kicking a protected sea lion at a San Diego beach near La Jolla Cove. NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement is leading the probe, though the footage hasn’t been independently verified and the individual hasn’t been identified. Violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act can carry penalties over $30,000 per violation and potential prison time, as authorities emphasize wildlife protection during pupping season while San Diego has posted restrictions to keep people away from the seals.